Interesting New Driving Restrictions

We recently received an e-mail alerting us of this new decision about driving in town. Many have thought it was bizarre, but it's real. Our license plate ends in an even number, so today we were okay because of the warnings, and next week is the 18th, but after that we'll see. Hopefully the restrictions will be lifted! Just thought this was something interesting to share with you, not something they would ever think of trying in the States.
Smog alert issued, road traffic limited in Budapest
Sunday, 11 January 2009
Budapest Mayor Gabor Demszky issued an open-ended smog alert in Budapest effective 11 am on Sunday, imposing restrictions on road traffic. During the smog alert, vehicles whose licence plates end in an even number should be used only on even dates of the month and vehicles with odd numbers may only be used on odd dates, the statement said. Budapest Mayor Gabor Demszky issued an open-ended smog alert in Budapest effective 11 am on Sunday, imposing restrictions on road traffic. During the smog alert, vehicles whose licence plates end in an even number should be used only on even dates of the month and vehicles with odd numbers may only be used on odd dates, the statement said. The alert was introduced after the concentration of dust floating in the air has exceeded the limit of 100 microgrammes per cubic metre for two days in a row, on Friday and Saturday. Prime Minister Ferenc Gyurcsany urged ministries and state offices on Sunday to strictly adhere to the regulations of the smog alert, government spokesman David Daroczi said. Public transport vehicles, police, ambulance and fire services and vehicles of the diplomatic corps are exempt from the restrictions. On Sunday and Monday, police will not issue fines for violators of the smog alert restrictions, police spokeswoman Eva Tafferner said. However, there will be roadside checks throughout the city and on main roads entering Budapest and officers will warn drivers of the restrictions, she added. According to weather forecasts the dust concentration will decrease in the coming days.